Wonders Of Art

Dixya Poudel

Like each year, World Art Day was celebrated with much enthusiasm on 15th of April. The date, April 15 was chosen in reverence to Leonardo da Vinci who was born on the same day. Vinci was a famous Renaissance artist who is today widely considered to be one of greatest artists of all time. Many have no doubt heard of Mona Lisa, painted by Vinci that now graces the walls of Louvre, France. 

As such, on April 15, artists and art enthusiasts commemorate art through various programmes such as exhibitions, fairs and workshops. Social media flood with creative artists’ works as they take this moment to celebrate the many wonders of art. However, when it comes to defining art, it is intricate as it is subjective to both the creators and the viewers. Since art is subjective, it can give varying meanings and purpose to the viewers. It is interesting that no two viewers view the same art in a similar manner. And artists don’t have to be confined in a medium; instead they can experiment through different styles, genres, medium and mannerism. 

There are artists who work in a particular niche while others immerse in multiple media. Whatever the medium, the purpose of art is to delight, inform and evoke feelings. The music people listen to, the movies they watch, the watercolour portraits that they make and even the pottery that they create are all encompassed under the term, art. Thus, any definition of art would be quite narrow; instead it acts like an umbrella term that houses countless mediums. In the end, one appreciates art simply because it is beautiful and evocative. Unsurprisingly, people cry in the movies, while listening to sad songs or while viewing an immersive painting. 

When one thinks of artists, one tends to think of maestros like Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt, Dali, etc. But the beauty of art is that its creation is quite fluid. Children are expressive in their art even though they have no notions of light and shade or perspective. As such, they can create quite beautiful pieces. It isn’t surprising schools include art classes for young students. This tends to foster a sense of art appreciation among them while also nurturing their creativity.

 Likewise, art also makes students empathetic. They become more in tune with how they perceive their environment. Those who persevere with creativity can grow up to be artists who break glass ceilings. Even for those who don’t pursue art as a career, art can still be an outlet of inner feelings. It can be a leisure act, a quiet time to contemplate life as one strokes the paints with brushes. Just imagine how dull life would be if one couldn’t appreciate art? 

It is inherent in humans to create. As seen in the cave paintings of ancient times, humans are driven to reflect on their environment and imitate it into an art form. But art is more than an imitation, it is also an echo of creativity that extends out to the viewers so that they can create their own understanding of it. Ultimately, what is wonderful about art is that it can be admired by all, the same way one admires the sky, the moon and the sun.